From its humble beginnings as a fine dining establishment, M Culinary has grown into the Southwest’s largest privately held catering and hospitality provider. However, this journey isn’t just about culinary excellence or national recognition; it’s about a deep-seated commitment to community impact. Beyond the mouthwatering menus and iconic events, M Culinary stands as a model of philanthropy and community engagement, embodying the belief that success is best measured by the lives touched along the way.
At the heart of M Culinary’s operations lies a mission to create exceptional experiences that surpass expectations. For CEO Brandon Maxwell, this philosophy extends into every facet of the company’s community service efforts. “Creating meaningful connections is what we do best, both in the kitchen and in the community,” Maxwell shares. “Every partnership, every volunteer hour, and every job opportunity we create is a step toward making a lasting impact.”
This commitment to service began in the early days of the company’s first restaurant, Michael’s at the Citadel. What started as a partnership with Waste Not to donate rescued food has since grown into a robust culture of giving back. Today, M Culinary’s dedication to addressing hunger, sustainability and inclusivity has become a hallmark of its identity. Tens of thousands of pounds of food rescued from events like the WM Phoenix Open are donated to those in need annually, while compostable materials and sustainable practices ensure that the company’s environmental footprint remains as small as possible.
Michael Stavros, vice president of Business Development, emphasizes this core value: “At M Culinary Concepts, we believe in more than just serving up incredible food; we believe in serving our community in meaningful ways. Our partnership with Waste Not and other local organizations is a testament to our commitment to reduce food waste while fighting hunger. It’s all about making every resource count for the greater good.”
This ethos extends to M Culinary’s work with second-chance hiring initiatives. In collaboration with AZ@Work, the company has helped individuals reenter the workforce, providing opportunities for those seeking a fresh start. Recruiting efforts have even included visiting state prisons, where programs like culinary training and forklift certification help prepare inmates for life beyond incarceration.
“With over 1,500 inmates released in Arizona each month and more than 42,000 people currently incarcerated in the state, the need for these programs is greater than ever,” Maxwell explains. “For some, these reentry programs are not just a step toward self-sufficiency; they are a matter of life or death.”
M Culinary’s focus on inclusive hiring also shines through its participation in the DREAM Job Fair, dedicated to employing individuals with disabilities. By embracing diversity in the workplace, the company demonstrates its belief that strong teams are built on unique perspectives and talents.
In addition to hiring initiatives, M Culinary fosters employee engagement through volunteerism. Team members regularly volunteer at organizations like St. Mary’s Food Bank, sorting and packing food boxes or preparing turkeys for Thanksgiving to ensure families in need have meals during the holidays. The company’s efforts with organizations like Homeward Bound and New Freedom further highlight its dedication to improving quality of life for underserved populations.
M Culinary’s community involvement also includes providing food scraps from events like the WM Phoenix Open to the AZ Worm Farm, contributing to sustainable waste management practices. Beyond that, the company supports local nonprofits through in-kind catering donations, amplifying the impact of its fundraising efforts.
This combination of sustainability, volunteerism and philanthropic partnerships reflects M Culinary’s vision of creating 25 million unique experiences by 2035. Every action, whether big or small, aligns with its core values of inspiring passion, humble confidence, service to others and making “huge fun.”
For M Culinary, community engagement isn’t just an add-on to its business — it’s an integral part of its DNA. By using its platform to address critical issues like hunger, workforce reintegration and environmental sustainability, the company continues to set an example for others in the industry.
“In partnering with AZ@Work and supporting second-chance hiring, we’re investing in potential,” Maxwell says. “We see the value in helping individuals rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.”
With more than 25 years of experience creating unforgettable culinary moments, M Culinary remains steadfast in its commitment to serving more than plates. Its impact extends far beyond the table, nourishing communities and transforming lives one initiative at a time.
Making an Impact Beyond the Plate
M Culinary Concepts combines culinary excellence with commitment to community. As the driving force behind the WM Phoenix Open’s catering, the company donated a record-breaking 32,752 pounds of rescued food in 2023, benefiting charities like Waste Not, UMOM and Hemp Legacy Foundation. This effort highlights its dedication to reducing food waste and feeding those in need. Now 100% employee-owned, M Culinary also invests in its team, offering employee stock ownership; robust benefits; and a vibrant, team-centric culture. “By giving our employees a stake in the company, they become the CEO of their own position,” says CEO Brandon Maxwell.
Tyler Butler, a trailblazer in ESG and corporate citizenship, has led Fortune 500 sustainability programs, contributed to two IPOs and founded Collaboration for Good. With degrees from ASU, Boston College and Cornell, she writes for top publications and serves as head of Public Affairs for Phoenix Rising FC.
Photos courtesy of M Culinary
